Tough enough

Kathy Van MullekomDaily Press

The drought gripping the East Coast reminds gardeners that water does not always run plentiful for our plants. Some plants, however, cope - even thrive - in dry soil and triple digit temperatures. They are the drought-tolerant, native plants we need to use and appreciate more.

"Prolonged periods of drought do have an impact on native plants, but it is not usually as severe as it is on species from very different climates," says Janis Miller, horticulturist at the Virginia Living Museum in Newport News and a member of the Virginia Native Plant Society.

"Our native species are adapted to this climate, and there are many good drought-tolerant natives that are thriving despite the weather. However, even these native plants need time to get their roots established before they can tolerate such conditions.

"Plant them late in the fall when the temperatures are cooler and the ground hopefully has more moisture in it. That way they'll be well established before next summer."

Miller and other professional gardeners also encourage you to place your plants in places where they will grow best. For example, moisture-loving cardinal flower resents a spot where it may stay dry too long, forcing you to supplement its water needs. In reverse, Autumn Joy sedum dislikes a wet home. It performs best in a somewhat dry soil that drains well.

"People tend to choose plants that they like, rather than what's suited to their yard, and then they try to make up for poor habitat with extra water and fertilizer," says Miller.

"Drought only makes it tougher on such misplaced plants, and when its gets so severe that water use is restricted, there may be nothing you can do to save them."